How does the treatment generally work? Scientific studies (Kim et al., 2004; Bergqvist et al., 2005) have shown that ketosis can be achieved without fasting, using gradual initiation protocols, reducing side effects. In children, the gradual initiation of the diet is done in the hospital, preferably without initial fasting to avoid the risks of hypoglycemia.
The classic ketogenic diet is used mainly in infants and young children, whose dietary habits can be more easily monitored than those of teenagers and adults. If the diet proves effective in a child (after an evaluation of at least 3 months), it is followed for a period of up to 2 years, with the possibility of gradually increasing carbohydrate intake in some cases, possibly opting for a variant of the modified Atkins diet to allow for varied menus.
For infants and children fed by tube, the ketogenic diet can be administered in a completely liquid form. A variety of commercial products are available to prepare this diet based on infant formula already respecting the ketogenic ratio of 4:1 or 3:1 (4 or 3 grams of fat for 1 gram of protein + carbohydrates). Breastfeeding is possible, either by calculating the amount of breast milk in a 3:1 formula or by briefly allowing it on demand.
Each ketogenic diet will be adapted to meet the specific needs of the child in terms of age and medical history. Vitamins and minerals are generally adequate in a balanced diet, but due to limitations in fruits, vegetables, cereals, and calcium-rich foods in the ketogenic diet, supplements are essential. This is why your medical team will also recommend supplements, particularly of vitamins (B and D) and minerals (calcium), to be taken regularly to reach the recommended nutritional intakes. In summary, treatment with the pediatric ketogenic diet starts gradually in the hospital, is adjusted to the individual needs of the child, and continues with appropriate medical monitoring.
How to use the app for my child?
You can easily adapt the app to your child’s needs by customizing the settings according to your medical team’s instructions. For example, on the “Customize my program” screen, it is possible to access different settings to adapt the distribution of macronutrients according to the doctor’s prescription or modify the number of meals and snacks. In the Meal Generator, you can access filters to choose preferences and tolerances (for example, lactose-free, seafood-free, gluten-free, etc.) of your child. These filters are also available in the Recipes section.
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